Big Island Invasive Species Committee (BIISC)

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Redwing

Redwing

DO NOT PLANT: HPWRA Score: 7, High-Risk

Heteropterys brachiata, commonly known as Redwing, is an invasive vine in Hawaii and Florida. It is native to Central and South America. Using other trees as support, this shade-tolerant plant grows above them while smothering the host species. It produces many winged seeds (samaras) that are adapted to wind dispersal. Not much is officially documented about this species, as it is somewhat rare in cultivation. Because of that, it scores on the lower end of the high-risk rating. For instance, it’s unknown how many seeds are produced from one plant. BIISC crew found 100’s of seedlings sprouting in the areas surrounding naturalized populations. When more ecological information becomes available, the rating will increase, perhaps dramatically. Prevention is best with invasive plants! Redwing vine should be avoided!

Photos: BIISC

Impacts:

  • Naturalizing on Hawaii Island, and Florida
  • Shade-tolerant
  • Tolerates many soil types
  • Climbing and smothering growth habit
  • Seeds dispersed by wind and people

Description:

  • A woody, climbing vine
  • Leaves are oppositely arranged
  • 3 to 6 pink flowers are in umbels or corymbs
  • Bright red maple-like seeds profusely set in the winter months

Grow these instead

Kuhio vine

Shower of Orchids

O’ahu sedge

Photos: Forest & Kim Starr

Big Island Invasive Species Committee (BIISC)

23 East Kawili Street, Hilo, HI 96720
(808) 933-3340

  

biisc@hawaii.edu

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